StillCSG wrote:In what universe is James Harden worth a 228 million extension??

While his playoff performances have been rather disappointing, there's almost no question that he's been the best regular season player over the past three seasons. Finished 2nd in MVP voting twice in the past three seasons. He's taken Houston to the playoffs in each of his 4 seasons there, including a 2nd seed. One of the most marketable players in the NBA.

I think the timing of this move is about the current trend of super teams and Houston locking down their guy for as long as possible. He's not going anywhere anytime soon. Could he play better in elimination games? Sure. But when you're talking about the top handful of players in the NBA, it's hard to get too picky. You'll see guys signing for the max that aren't worth it but James Harden isn't one of them.

sanka wrote:Hayward to Boston....finally a great move....Tatum is looking like a beast in the summer league ....Ainge is building something special in Boston.

As of right now, they are still a distant 2nd in the East and likely wouldn't be a top 4 team in the West.

I wouldn't be so sure. I think with Hayward and Tatum, the Celtics can contend with the Cavs now. Obviously Cleveland would still be the favorite, but it wouldn't stun me if Boston knocked off Cleveland this coming season.